The Academy of Art University, formerly Academy of Art College, is a privately owned for-profit art school in San Francisco, California, USA. It was founded by Richard S. Stephens in 1929, and is now owned by the Stephens Institute. It has over 18,000 students, and claims to be the largest privately owned art and design school in the United States. It is one of the largest property owners in San Francisco.

The Academy of Art University prepares aspiring professionals in the fields of design, communication and the arts by delivering excellent undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificate and portfolio development programs.

From a bizarre meeting in Albany in 1906 to determine the location of the Second District A&M School to the present day, the history of ABAC is quite a colorful presentation. On this site, you can trace the background of the college, read about some of its most distinguished alumni, and get an in-depth look at the 100th birthday celebration.

Take time to look at the lists of award-winners from the ABAC faculty and staff, students, and the Alumni Association. Stories abound such as the ketchup bottle from the Class of 1922 to an ABAC basketball player who made quite a name for herself by scoring 66 points in a single game. Stroll down memory lane. It's all about the one and only ABAC.